Flexible organizer and self-supporting unit

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure relates to a fiber management device or system for facilitating routing and storing optical fibers. The fiber management device includes a flexible, film-like substrate that has optical fiber management, storing functionality, and splicing functionality all on one film-like substrate. The flexible, film-like substrate can provide a routing path for routing optical fibers onto a flexible planar substrate that can be temporarily supported by, mounted on or attached to the flexible planar substrate. The flexible, film-like substrate can accommodate fibers that are in a multi-fiber (e.g., ribbon) configuration or a single fiber configuration.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is being filed on Apr. 4, 2019 as a PCT InternationalPatent Application and claims the benefit of U.S. Patent ApplicationSer. No. 62/654,146, filed on Apr. 6, 2018, and claims the benefit ofU.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 62/811,961, filed on Feb. 28, 2019, thedisclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in theirentireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to telecommunicationsmanagement devices. More specifically, the present disclosure relates tofiber management devices and systems for managing optical fibers.

BACKGROUND

Various modules are commonly used to manage, store and protect opticalfibers and optical splices. Typically, these modules include trays thathave relatively hard, plastic constructions and include added structuresfor routing optical fibers and splicing locations. There is a need forsystems and devices for managing and storing optical fibers with ease.

SUMMARY

Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to a fiber managementdevice or system for facilitating routing and storing optical fibers.

Aspects of the present disclosure relates to a flexible, film-likesubstrate that has optical fiber management, storing functionality, andoptionally splicing functionality all on one film-like substrate.Various types of splicing can be used to splice single fibers ormulti-fibers, for example, mechanical splices, fusion splices, etc.

The flexible, film-like substrate provides a routing path for routingoptical fibers onto a flexible planar substrate that can be temporarilysupported by, mounted on or attached to the flexible planar substrate.The flexible, film-like substrate can accommodate fibers that are in amulti-fiber (e.g., ribbon) configuration or a single fiberconfiguration.

In one example, the flexible, film-like substrate includes adhesive forretaining first lengths of optical fibers along a desired fiber routingpath. The flexible, film-like substrate can further include fibermanagement structures for storing second lengths of optical fibersloosely constrained (e.g., unfixed) or managed on the flexible,film-like substrate. The fiber management structures are integral with(e.g., formed in one seamless piece with) the flexible, film-likesubstrate such that no additional structure is needed to providemanagement or storing functionality. Thus, systems in accordance withthe present disclosure can have the benefit of fixed fiber routing incombination with non-fixed fiber routing, splice mounting functionality,and storing fibers or pigtails all in one film-like substrate withoutany additional parts.

Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to mounting structures(e.g., fixation holes, openings, apertures) that can be used to mountthe flexible, film-like substrate to a wall, enclosure, or otherstructure. The mounting structures can be defined by the flexible,film-like substrate such that they are integrally made with (e.g.,formed in one seamless piece with) the flexible, film-like substrate.

Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a telecommunicationsfiber management device that includes a flexible film with a pluralityof fiber management tabs having base ends unitary with a main body ofthe film and free ends positioned opposite from the base ends. The fibermanagement tabs can be capable of being resiliently flexed relative themain body from an at rest position to a flexed position. The fibermanagement tabs can be co-planar with the main body when in the at restposition. The free ends of the fiber management tabs can be upwardlyoffset from the main body when in the flexed position such that anoptical fiber can be inserted beneath the fiber management tabs andsecured between the fiber management tabs and the main body.

Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a fixture for use inloading optical fibers into a telecommunications fiber managementdevice. The fixture can include posts movable between first positions inwhich the posts are extended to hold fiber management tabs of thetelecommunications fiber management device in the flexed positions tofacilitate loading optical fibers under the fiber management tabs, andsecond positions in which the posts are retracted to allow the fibermanagement tabs to move back toward the at rest positions.

A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to atelecommunications enclosure that includes a housing and a plurality ofruggedized fiber optic adapters secured to the housing. The ruggedizedfiber optic adapters can include hardened connector ports accessiblefrom outside the housing and non-hardened connector ports accessiblefrom inside the housing.

The telecommunications enclosure can include a flexible film including amain body and a plurality of fiber management tabs. The fiber managementtabs can include base ends unitary with the main body and free endspositioned opposite from the base ends. The fiber management tabs can becapable of being resiliently flexed relative the main body from an atrest position to a flexed position. The fiber management tabs can beco-planar with the main body when in the at rest position. The free endsof the fiber management tabs can be offset from the main body when inthe flexed position.

The main body can have a first section and a second section with atleast some of the fiber management tabs provided at each of the firstand second sections. The main body of the flexible film can be movablebetween a first state in which the first and second sections aregenerally planar and a second state in which the first and secondsections generally oppose one another.

The telecommunications enclosure can include first optical fibersincluding a first coil portion secured to the first section by a firstset of the fiber management tabs and second optic fibers including asecond coil portion secured to the first section by a second set of thefiber management tabs.

The first and second optic fibers can be spliced together at splicelocations supported by a splice holder attached to the first section.The first optical fibers can extend from the first section to the secondsection and can be secured to the second section by further ones of thefiber management tabs. The flexible film can be mountable in the housingand can be oriented in the second state when in the housing.

The first optical fibers can have connectorized ends adjacent the secondsection that plug into the non-hardened connector ports of the fiberoptic adapters.

The various aspects characterized above in this section can be usedtogether or separately in enclosure arrangements.

These and other features and advantages will be apparent from a readingof the following detailed description and a review of the associateddrawings. A variety of additional aspects will be set forth in thedescription that follows. These aspects can relate to individualfeatures and to combinations of features. It is to be understood thatboth the foregoing general description and the following detaileddescription are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictiveof the broad concepts upon which the embodiments disclosed herein arebased.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of the description, illustrate several aspects of the presentdisclosure. A brief description of the drawings is as follows:

FIG. 1 is a top, perspective view of an example of a flexible, film-likesubstrate in accordance with principles of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is cross-sectional view showing multiple layers of the flexible,film-like substrate of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a top, perspective view of another example flexible, film-likesubstrate in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a top, perspective view of another example flexible, film-likesubstrate in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 5-7 are top views of another example of a flexible, film-likesubstrate in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure invarious folding stages.

FIG. 8 is a top, front, perspective view of a further example of aflexible, film-like substrate in accordance with the principles of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a top, schematic view of a further example of a flexible,film-like substrate including fiber management tabs in accordance withthe principles of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the flexible, film-like substrate ofFIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of a portion of the flexible, film-likesubstrate of FIG. 9.

FIG. 12 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the flexible,film-like substrate of FIG. 9.

FIG. 13 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the flexible,film-like substrate of FIG. 9 showing fiber management tabs inaccordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view of the flexible, film-likesubstrate to form a telecommunications fiber management device inaccordance with the principles of the present disclosure and also anexample enclosure housing piece.

FIG. 15 is a top, schematic view of the flexible, film-like substrate ina first state that is generally planar.

FIG. 16 is a perspective, schematic view of the flexible, film-likesubstrate in a second state positioned in the enclosure housing piece ofFIG. 14.

FIG. 17 is a perspective schematic view of an example guide fixtureincluding exploded first and second parts in accordance with theprinciples of the present disclosure.

FIG. 18 is a perspective schematic view of the guide fixture shown inFIG. 17 and the flexible, film-like structure of FIG. 9 explodedtherefrom.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the guide fixture of FIG. 18 with thefirst and second parts mounted together and the flexible, film-likestructure positioned in the second part.

FIG. 20 is an enlarged view of a portion of the second part includingthe flexible, film-like structure of FIG. 19.

FIG. 21 is an enlarged view of a portion of the guide fixture and theflexible, film-like structure of FIG. 19.

FIG. 22 is a perspective, schematic view of the guide fixture and thetelecommunications fiber management device of FIG. 14.

FIG. 23 is a perspective, schematic view of the telecommunications fibermanagement device of FIG. 22 removed from the guide fixture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure is directed generally to a fiber managementdevice that includes a flexible, film-like substrate. In certainexamples, the flexible, film-like substrate of the present disclosureprovides fixed fiber routing functionality, loose fiber routingfunctionality, loose fiber storage, storage functionality, andoptionally splice mounting capability configured all on one singleflexible, film-like substrate. In certain examples, the optical fiberscan be terminated by a fiber optic connector or fiber optic connectors.Non-limiting examples of connectors include MPO style connectors, andsingle or duplex fiber connectors, such as LC or SC type connectors.

The flexible, film-like substrate can include one or more (typically,multiple) optical fibers attached to and supported by a flexible planarsubstrate, such as a Mylar™ or other flexible polymer substrate.Although specific examples herein depict and describe planar substrates,it should be appreciated that other substrate configurations, e.g., inwhich a substrate routes fibers in and/or across multiple planes arealso contemplated. In certain examples, the fibers can extend past theends of the flexible, film-like substrate so that they can be terminatedto optical connectors, which can be coupled to fiber optic cables orother fiber optic components through mating optical connectors. Incertain examples, the optical fibers can include first portions fixedlymanaged by or routed on (e.g., via adhesive bonding) the substrate andsecond portions non-fixedly stored, routed by or otherwise managed bythe substrate. In one example, the non-fixed fiber portion can be storedor arranged in a coil or loop of optical fiber that isremovable/detachable from the substrate.

The flexible, film-like substrate can be a composite structure theincludes at least three layers of which two layers are flexible planarsubstrates, such as Mylar™, and the third layer includes an adhesivematerial. Example adhesives include epoxy, light curable adhesive (e.g.,ultraviolet light curable adhesive), thermo-form adhesive, thermo-setadhesive, index-matching adhesive or other adhesives. In certainexamples, the adhesive material can be deposited on top of a firstflexible planar substrate and a second flexible planar substrate can belaminated to the first flexible planar substrate such that the adhesivematerial is sandwiched between the first and second flexible planarsubstrates.

Supporting the optical fibers on a flexible, film-like substrateessentially comprises one or more fibers being routed on a flexibleplanar substrate, typically with a needle extending from a robotic arm,and then securing the routed fibers to the flexible planar substratewith an adhesive, which is allowed to set or cure. In some examples,therefore, the uncured adhesive is pre-applied to the substrate beforethe fiber routing. Furthermore, in some examples, an additional optionallayer of material can be applied on top of the fibers and the adhesiveto affix the fibers. Any suitable material can be used for this purpose.In a non-limiting example, an elastomer such as silicone can be appliedon top of the fibers and the adhesive on the substrate. In someexamples, the elastomer is cured after application to the substrate; inother examples, the silicone can be pre-cured.

The method of assembly of the flexible, film-like substrate of thepresent disclosure provides a number of advantages, which will bediscussed in further detail below. For example, no additional featuresor supports are needed for providing optical fiber management andstorage on the flexible, film-like substrate.

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to the flexible, film-likesubstrate optionally having a flexibility that flexes up to but notbeyond a minimum bend radius of an optical fiber intended to be managed.In one example, the optical fiber is a G657A or G652D optical fiber. Inone example, a plurality of different types of optical fibers areintended to be managed by the flexible, film-like substrate, and theminimum bend radius beyond which the flexible, film-like substrate doesnot flex corresponds to the minimum bend radius of the optical fiberhaving the highest minimum bend radius of the optical fibers (i.e., themanger can be designed for the worse-case scenario). Preferably, theflexible, film-like substrate does not break or kink to ensure thesafety and protection of the optical fibers. In certain examples, theflexible, film-like substrate is bendable in such a way that the opticalfiber bend radius requirements are respected and satisfied.

In other examples, the flexible, film-like substrate may have aflexibility that allows the flexible, film-like substrate to flex alonga bend smaller than a minimum bend radius of the optical fiber or fibersbeing managed.

In certain examples, the flexible, film-like substrate has aconstruction that prevents the flexible, film-like substrate from beingbent along a curvature having a radius smaller than a minimum bendradius of the optical fiber intended to be managed on the flexible,film-like substrate. In certain examples, the flexible, film-likesubstrate has a construction that allows it to be bent along a curvaturehaving a radius smaller than 10 centimeters (cm), or 8 cm, or 6 cm, or 5cm, or 4 cm, or 3 cm or 2 cm without breaking or kinking, and optionallyprevents the flexible, film-like substrate from being bent along acurvature having a radius smaller than a minimum bend radius of theoptical fiber intended to be managed on the flexible, film-likesubstrate.

FIG. 1 is a schematic top view of an example flexible, film-likesubstrate 10 (e.g., final product cut from bulk substrate, fibermanager, fiber management substrate, sheet, film, liner, sleeve,envelope, thin tray, carrier, etc.), such as Mylar™, in accordance withthe present disclosure. The flexible, film-like substrate 10 is amulti-layer substrate that can include: a first planar flexiblesubstrate layer 12 (e.g., base substrate layer, bottom substrate layer,bulk substrate), an adhesive layer 14 (e.g., epoxy), and an optionalsecond planar flexible substrate layer 16 (e.g., top substrate layer)(see FIG. 2), although alternatives are possible.

The first planar flexible substrate layer 12 has a top surface 18 ontowhich the adhesive layer 14 can be deposited for holding routed opticalfiber 20 (e.g., pre-fibered layer) on the first planar flexiblesubstrate layer 12. The second planar flexible substrate layer 16 can beaffixed to the first planar flexible substrate layer 12 via the adhesivelayer 14 such that the routed optical fiber 20 can be secured betweenthe first and second planar flexible substrate layers 12, 16. As such,the adhesive can control the routing path of optical fibers. The firstand second planar flexible substrate layers 12, 16 together forming asealed attachment to seal and provide protection for the optical fiber20.

It will be appreciated that a variety of routing configurations can beused for routing the optical fiber 20 on the first planar flexiblesubstrate layer 12. Although, a single optical fiber 20 is illustrated,it will be appreciated that any number of optical fibers may be routedon the first planar flexible substrate layer 12. In other examples,there may be 12 fibers, 24 fibers, or any other number of fibers routedon the first planar flexible substrate layer 12. The process of routingthe optical fiber 20 can be an automated process, although alternativesare possible. In certain examples, the optical fiber 20 can be routedonto the first planar flexible substrate layer 12 with a needleextending from a robotic arm. That is, to route the fibers on the firstplanar flexible substrate layer 12, in some examples the fiber can belaid on the first planar flexible substrate layer 12 by being passedthrough a needle controlled by robotics, the robotics being configuredto route the fiber along a predefined path on the first planar flexiblesubstrate layer 12. The robotics can be configured to route the fiber ina single plane or across multiple planes; similarly, separate fibers canbe routed in the same or different plane(s) of the substrate as otherfibers. As it routes the optical fibers, the needle can be configured topress the optical fibers onto an adhesive layer that has beenpre-applied to the first planar flexible substrate layer 12. In someexamples, the fiber is dispensed from a spool and a cutting devicedisposed at or near the needle end is configured to cut a length offiber after it has been laid on the first planar flexible substratelayer 12 so that the next length of fiber can be laid. It will beappreciated that a variety of optical fiber routing configurations canbe arranged on the first planar flexible substrate layer 12.

As mentioned, in some examples, the routed fibers are secured to thefirst planar flexible substrate layer 12 by adhesive. In some examples,the optical fibers pass through the needle onto an uncured adhesivelayer on the first planar flexible substrate layer 12, and then theadhesive and/or an elastomeric or other fiber fixating material appliedto the adhesive is allowed to cure to secure the fibers to the firstplanar flexible substrate layer 12. The paths and lengths of theindividually routed fibers can vary from fiber to fiber.

The flexible, film-like substrate 10 can include a desired routing pathof optical fiber 20 secured thereon. The flexible, film-like substrate10 can be cut out into multiple shapes and/or sizes. The cutting processcan be accomplished by any known cutting techniques. For example, acutout area 22 of the flexible, film-like substrate 10 can be cut asindicated at an indication line 24 (e.g., cutting line, cutting zone,final product cut-out boundary). The flexible, film-like substrate 10can be cut to any desired shape. The fixed routing of the optical fiberscan be performed in the factory. In certain examples, any knownarrangements, operations, controlling machines or devices for cutting,cutting-out, stamping out, punching, perforating and also for severingmay be used.

The flexible, film-like substrate 10 can include mounting structures 26(e.g., fixation holes, openings, apertures, notch) that can be used tomount the flexible, film-like substrate 10 to a wall, enclosure, module,or other structure. The mounting structures 26 can be defined by theflexible, film-like substrate 10 such that they are integrally made with(e.g., formed in one seamless piece with) the flexible, film-likesubstrate 10. The mounting structures 26 can be cut from either thefirst and second planar flexible substrate layers 12, 16 through to theother one of the first and second planar flexible substrates 12, 16.That is, the mounting structures 26 can extend through both the firstand second planar flexible substrate layers 12, 16, althoughalternatives are possible. In certain examples, the mounting structures26 may be defined in one of the first and second planar flexiblesubstrate layers 12, 16. The mounting structures 26 are within thecutout area 22 and are intended to be included as part of the finalfiber management product after the final management product has been cutfrom the bulk base substrate (e.g., substrate layer 12). The mountingstructures 26 can be used to attach or mount the final managementproduct in its final intended use. For example, the mounting structures26 can be used for positioning or attaching the final product in a fiberoptic module, in a fiber optic housing, to a fiber optic panel, to afiber optic frame, to a fiber optic tray or elsewhere.

In certain examples, the flexible, film-like substrate 10 can includefixation holes 28 for mounting the flexible, film-like substrate 10 in afixation device for alignment control and support during assembly. Thefixation holes 28 are not within the boundary defined by the indicationline 24 and are not part of the final fiber optic product. The fixationholes 28 are used to hold the bulk base substrate in place when theadhesive, optical fibers, and other layers are applied to the basesubstrate, but are not part of the final product.

The flexible, film-like substrate 10 including the pre-fibered layer canbe made in a production facility and may be used in the field forfurther assembly with other elements. For example, the flexible,film-like substrate 10 can provide for the capability of supportingsplicing in the field.

Turning to FIG. 3, an example fiber management device 30 is depicted.The fiber management device 30 can include the flexible, film-likesubstrate 10. The flexible, film-like substrate 10 can include a firstflexible portion 44 with at least one optical fiber 20 adhesivelysecured thereon and a second flexible portion 46 with at least oneoptical fiber management structure 32 for storing a length of opticalfiber loosely constrained thereon. In certain examples, the flexible,film-like substrate 10 may include a third flexible portion 48 forstoring lengths of optical fiber loosely constrained on the flexible,film-like substrate 10. The first flexible portion 44 is arranged andconfigured to hold optical fibers in a fixed routing path. The first,second, and third flexible portions 44, 46, 48 may be cut out of theflexible, film-like substrate 10 as defined by the cutout area 22 alongthe indication line 24, which defines an outer boundary of the finalfiber management product to be cut from the bulk body of the substrate10. The cutout area 22 is the shape of the final product prior tofolding. In certain examples, the final product formed by the first,second, and third flexible portions 44, 46, 48 may be mounted or placedin an enclosure, organizer, or other telecommunications equipment. Theflexible, film-like substrate 10 can have features that allow connectionwith other structures.

In certain examples, the flexible, film-like substrate 10 may include afold line 50 (e.g., a perforated line, scored line, crease or otherstructure for defining a fold location) along a portion of a lateralaxis X of the flexible, film-like substrate 10. The fold line 50 candivide the flexible, film-like substrate 10 into the first and secondflexible portions 44, 46. In certain examples, the flexible, film-likesubstrate 10 may include a fold line 50 along a longitudinal axis Y thatis perpendicular relative to the lateral axis X. The fold line 50 candivide the flexible, film-like substrate 10 into the first and thirdflexible portions 44, 48. The second and third flexible portions 46, 48can be folded at the fold lines 50 to be disposed in a parallel,overlying relation relative to the first flexible portion 44.

In certain examples, at least one mounting structure 26 may be locatedin at least one of the first and second flexible portions 44, 46,although alternatives are possible. In certain examples, at least onemounting structure 26 may be located inside the final product cut-outboundary, the indication line 24, in at least one of the first, second,and third flexible portions 44, 46, 48. The at least one mountingstructure 26 (e.g., a mounting opening or openings) can be positionedoffset from the fold lines 50. In certain examples, the mountingstructures 26 can be used for fixating to allow connections to otherelements. Thus, no support or additional parts are needed. The flexible,film-like substrate 10 can include other perforations or precut shapeswithin the final product cut-out boundary 24 such that separate traysmay not be needed in an enclosure or organizer.

In certain examples, the flexible, film-like substrate 10 may includejust the first flexible portion 44 with at least one optical fiberadhesively secured thereon and the mounting structures 26 for mountingthe final product defined by the flexible, film-like substrate 10. Asdescribed above, the mounting structures 26 can be integral with theflexible, film-like substrate 10 of the final product.

A cutting tool (e.g., a laser, a blade, or other cutting tool) may beused to make cuts or incisions in the second and third flexible portions46, 48 of the flexible, film-like substrate 10 to create at least oneoptical fiber management structure (e.g., a fiber management/routingtab, retainer, lip, finger, etc.), generally designated 32. It will beappreciated that various shapes may be formed in the flexible, film-likesubstrate 10 by a cutting tool (not shown) for managing optical fibers.As depicted, the at least one optical fiber management structure 32 isintegral with the flexible, film-like substrate 10. The fiber managementstructure 32 can have a free end to create a flap or folding tab. Inother words, the optical fiber management structures 32 can be fixed ata first end 34 and unattached at the other second end 36 for routingoptical fibers underneath. As such, the optical fiber managementstructures 32 may provide fiber management that is not adhesive based.As shown, fiber can be routed under and inside the tabs. In otherexamples, the tabs can be configured for fibers to be routed under andaround the tabs. Although four management structures 32 are depicted inthe second flexible portion 46, any number of management structures 32may be formed thereon and in any shape. Although two managementstructures 32 are depicted in the third flexible portion 48, any numberof management structures 32 may be formed thereon and in any shape. Themanagement structures 32 can be used for storing lengths of opticalfibers loosely constrained on the flexible, film-like substrate 10. Thatis, the management structures 32 can be used to manage optical fibersthat are not adhesively attached. The management structures 32 may beflexed up to route loose, unfixed ends of optical fibers underneath. Themanagement structure 32 may allow optical fibers to be bent or coiled orwrapped at an appropriate bend radius for the optical fiber. The fibermanagement structures 32 can be used to store and retain the opticalfiber and help prevent displacement of the optical fiber. Of course, inalternative embodiments, the flexible, film-like substrate 10 cancomprise other structural elements, to manage optical fibers, as wouldbe apparent to one of ordinary skill. The management structures 32 canbe created in any shape or size by a cutting process, for example. Themanagement structures 32 can take the shape of a cylinder, an oval, oran ellipse, although alternatives are possible.

Referring to FIG. 4, another example flexible, film-like substrate 10 ais depicted with management structures 32 a. The management structures32 a can be integral with (e.g., formed in one seamless piece with) theflexible, film-like substrate 10 a. The management structures 32 a canbe arranged and configured to manage loose/unattached optical fibers.For example, routed optical fibers may include excess fiber length thatcan be stored (e.g., in a coiled configuration) for use in later opticalsplicing. A portion of the optical fiber 20 routed and managed by themanagement structures 32 can be routed to an optical splice location 38.In certain examples, the optical fiber 20 may be a bare fiber, althoughalternatives are possible. In certain examples, the optical fiber 20 maybe upjacketed, although alternatives are possible. In certain examples,the optical fiber 20 may be coated, although alternatives are possible.For example, while in the field, there may be a need to splice theoptical fiber 20 to another fiber on the same flexible, film-likesubstrate 10 a. In certain examples, the splice can be supported on theflexible, film-like substrate 10 a, that is, the portion of the fiber orfibers containing the splice can be secured on the flexible substrate.The splice can be a mechanical splice or a fusion splice. A splicereinforcing structure for protecting the splice location can be bondedor otherwise attached to or supported by the flexible, film-likesubstrate 10 a. In other examples, the field splice may not be supportedon the flexible, film-like substrate 10 a; that is, the splice can bepositioned, e.g., forward of a forward edge or rearward of a rearwardedge of the flexible, film-like substrate 10 a. In certain examples, theoptical fiber 20 may be routed to a splitter 40 on the flexible,film-like substrate 10 a.

Any excess fiber length may also be stored on the flexible, film-likesubstrate 10 a in loops by the management structures 32 a. Themanagement structures 32 a may be flexed up to route optical fibersunderneath. To transition from fixed fiber at substrate location 200 toloose fiber at substrate location 202, the optical fiber may be routedparallel along a fold line 24 a such that no kinks or bends developalong the route during folding of the flexible, film-like substrate 10a. In certain examples, the optical fibers 20 can be routed such thatloose, unfixed ends extend past the outer boundary of the flexible,film-like substrate 10 a. In certain examples, the optical fibers 20 maybe terminated by fiber optic connectors 42. The fiber optic connectors42 can be single-fiber optical connectors or multi-fiber opticalconnectors. Example fiber optic connectors can include SC connectors, LCconnectors, FC connectors, FT connectors, ST connectors, and MPO/MTPconnectors. The fiber optic connectors 42 can be later plugged intofiber optic adapters (not shown).

Turning to FIGS. 5-7, another example, flexible, film-like substrate 10b is depicted with first, second, and third integral panels 52, 54, 55.The third panel 55 or middle panel can be a region adapted for fixedfiber routing where optical fiber is typically adhesively secured to theflexible, film-like substrate 10 b. The first, second, and third panels52, 54, 55 can be foldably joined together along first and secondlongitudinal fold lines 56, 58. The first and second panels 52, 54 canbe a Mylar™, in accordance with the present disclosure. That is, thefirst and second panels 52, 54 can optionally be a planar flexiblesubstrate layer without the adhesive. Thus, the first and second panels52, 54 optionally may have a different thickness compared to the thirdpanel 55 including the first planar flexible substrate layer 12, anadhesive layer 14, and the second planar flexible substrate layer 16.The flexible, film-like substrate 10 b can be arranged and configured tohold optical fibers in a fixed routing path (e.g., at the third panel).The flexible, film-like substrate 10 b may have openings 60 (e.g.,slits) adjacent the first longitudinal fold line 56 for attaching thesecond panel 54.

The first panel 52 can include a plurality of the optical fibermanagement structures 32 b for managing loose optical fibers. The firstpanel 52 can be folded at the first longitudinal fold line 56 to bedisposed overlaying and parallel relative to the third panel 55. Thatis, the first panel 52 can be folded under the third panel 55 such thatthe first panel 52 is parallel to and opposes a bottom side of the thirdpanel 55. The first panel 52 can be configured for loose fiber routing,storage, and/or management.

The second panel 54 may include tab members 62 (e.g., hooks) that act aslatches. The tab members 62 can be received in the openings 60 of theflexible, film-like substrate 10 b such that the second panel 54cooperates with a top side 57 of the third panel 55 to form a sleeve 64for storing any loose optical fibers in the sleeve-like space betweenthe folded third panel 55 and the folded second panel 54. That is, thesecond panel 54 can be folded over the third panel 55 such that thesecond panel 54 is parallel to and opposes the top side 57 of the thirdpanel 55. The second panel 54 can be folded as described to create apocket/sleeve-like space to store, route, manage loose optical fiberbetween the top side 57 of the third panel 55 and the second panel 54.The flexible, film-like substrate 10 b may include a mounting structure26 b integral with the flexible, film-like substrate 10 b for mountingthe flexible, film-like substrate 10 b to a wall, enclosure, module, orother telecommunications equipment.

In certain examples, the optical fiber management structure 32 b can bearranged and configured as a cover that forms a sleeve for storingoptical fibers. In certain examples, the first and second panels 52, 54may remain in a flat configuration and not be folded along respectivefirst and second longitudinal fold lines 56, 58.

FIG. 8 is a partial top, front, perspective view of a further example ofa flexible, film-like substrate 10 c in accordance with the presentdisclosure. The flexible film-like substrate 10 c includes routedoptical fibers 20. The optical fibers are terminated in ferrules 66. Incertain examples, the routed optical fibers 20 can form a ribbon cable68. In this example, the ferrules 66 include ferrule hubs 70. Eachferrule hub 70 defines a notch or cutout for receiving front portions offront extensions 72 of the flexible, film-like substrate 10 c. The rowof ferrules 66 can be mated with connectors. Loose, unfixed ends of theoptical fibers 20 can be managed on non-adhesive portions, base layer 12of the flexible, film-like substrate 10 c. The loose, unfixed ends canextend past the outer boundary of the flexible, film-like substrate 10c. In certain examples, the base layer 12 may include management tabs 32b for routing the loose, unfixed ends of the optical fibers 20 in acoil, although alternatives are possible. The management tabs 32 b canbe fixed at a first end 34 b and unattached at the other second end 36 bfor routing optical fibers underneath. As such, fibers can be routedunder and inside the management tabs 32 b. In other examples, themanagement tabs 32 b can be configured for fibers to be routed under andaround the management tabs 32 b. The flexible, film-like substrate 10 cmay include a fold line 50 b (e.g., a perforated lien, scored line,crease or other structure for a defining fold location) to divide theflexible, film-like substrate 10 c into first and second flexibleportions 76, 78. The first flexible portion 76 can provide fixed fibermanagement. The second flexible portion 78 may optionally provide splicemounting capability.

Mounting structure 26 b integral with the flexible, film-like substrate10 c may be used for mounting the flexible, film-like substrate 10 c toa wall, enclosure, module, or other telecommunications equipment.

FIGS. 9-10 are schematic views of another example flexible, film-likesubstrate 10 d to form a telecommunications fiber management device 100in accordance with the present disclosure. The flexible, film-likesubstrate 10 d can be a single-layer substrate that includes a planarflexible substrate layer 101 (e.g., a polymeric layer such as Mylar™layer).

In certain examples, the flexible, film-like substrate 10 d may includea multi-layer substrate that can include a first planar flexiblesubstrate layer (e.g., base substrate layer, bottom substrate layer,bulk substrate), an adhesive layer (e.g., epoxy), and an optional secondplanar flexible substrate layer (e.g., top substrate layer) inaccordance with the principles of the present disclosure, althoughalternatives are possible.

The flexible, film-like substrate 10 d can include a main body 102 and aplurality of fiber management tabs 104. The plurality of fibermanagement tabs 104 include base ends 106 that may beunitarily/integrally formed with the main body 102 and free ends 108that are positioned opposite from the base ends 106. The free ends 108can create a flap or folding tab. In other words, the plurality of fibermanagement tabs 104 can be fixed at the base ends 106 and unattached atthe free ends 108 for routing optical fibers 20 underneath.

Turning to FIGS. 11-13, the plurality of fiber management tabs 104 canbe used for storing lengths of optical fibers 20 loosely constrained onthe flexible, film-like substrate 10 d. That is, the plurality of fibermanagement tabs 104 can be used to manage optical fibers 20 that are notadhesively attached. The plurality of fiber management tabs 104 may beflexed up to route loose, unfixed ends of optical fibers 20 underneath.

The plurality of fiber management tabs 104 may include a first set 104 aand a second set 104 b, although alternatives are possible. The firstset 104 a of the plurality of fiber management tabs 104 can be arrangedin a first configuration for securing a first optical fiber 20 a to theflexible, film-like substrate 10 d in a first coil 110 (e.g., first coilportion). In certain examples, there may be a first plurality of opticalfibers 20 a arranged on and managed by the flexible, film-like substrate10 d.

In some examples, the second set 104 b of the plurality of fibermanagement tabs 104 can be arranged in a second configuration forsecuring a second optical fiber 20 b to the flexible, film-likesubstrate 10 d in a second coil 112 (e.g., second coil portion). Incertain examples, there may be a second plurality of optical fibers 20 barranged on and managed by the flexible, film-like substrate 10 d.

The plurality of fiber management tabs 104 may allow optical fibers 20to be coiled or wrapped at an appropriate bend radius for the opticalfiber. The plurality of fiber management tabs 104 can be used to storeand retain the optical fibers 20 and help prevent displacement of theoptical fibers 20. Of course, in alternative embodiments, the flexible,film-like substrate 10 d can comprise other structural elements, tomanage optical fibers, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill.

The plurality of fiber management tabs 104 of the flexible, film-likesubstrate 10 d can be cut to any desired shape and/or sizes. In theexample depicted, the plurality of fiber management tabs 104 aretriangular in shape, although alternatives are possible. The pluralityof fiber management tabs 104 can be created in any shape or size by acutting process, for example. The plurality of fiber management tabs 104can take the shape of a circle, an oval, or an ellipse, althoughalternatives are possible. In certain examples, the plurality of fibermanagement tabs 104 can be semi-circular in shape, although alternativesare possible. The cutting process can be accomplished by any knowncutting techniques. In certain examples, any known arrangements,operations, controlling machines or devices for cutting, cutting-out,stamping out, punching, perforating and also for severing may be used.

In certain examples, the flexible, film-like substrate 10 d can includea first section 114 and a second section 116 (see FIG. 9). At least someof the plurality of fiber management tabs 104 can be provided at each ofthe first and second sections 114, 116, although alternatives arepossible. In certain examples, the first and second coils 110, 112 canbe secured to the first section 114 of the flexible, film-like substrate10 d, although alternatives are possible. In other examples, the firstand second coils 110, 112 can be secured to the second section 116 ofthe flexible, film-like substrate 10 d, although alternatives arepossible. As shown, optical fibers 20 can be routed under and inside theplurality of fiber management tabs 104. In other examples, the pluralityof fiber management tabs 104 can be configured for optical fibers 20 tobe routed under and around the plurality of fiber management tabs 104.Although eight fiber management tabs 104 are depicted for each of thefirst and second sets 104 a, 104 b of the plurality of fiber managementtabs 104, any number of fiber management tabs 104 may be formed thereonand in any shape.

In certain examples, the first and second sets 104 a, 104 b of theplurality of fiber management tabs 104 can be positionedcircumferentially about respective first and second reference points118, 120. That is, the plurality of fiber management tabs 104 of thefirst set 104 a of the plurality of fiber management tabs 104 can bepositioned circumferentially about the first reference point 118 and theplurality of fiber management tabs 104 of the second set 104 b of theplurality of fiber management tabs 104 can be positionedcircumferentially about the second reference point 120. The first andsecond sets 104 a, 104 b of the plurality of fiber management tabs 104can each include first fiber management tabs 104 c in which the freeends 108 face towards the respective first and second reference points118, 120 and second fiber management tabs 104 d in which the free ends108 face away from the respective first and second reference points 118,120.

The plurality of fiber management tabs 104 are capable of beingresiliently flexed relative to the main body 102 from an at restposition (see FIGS. 9-10) to a flexed position (see FIGS. 11-13). Whenin the at rest position, the plurality of fiber management tabs 104 canbe co-planar with the main body 102. When in the flexed position, thefree ends 108 of the plurality of fiber management tabs 104 can beupwardly offset from the main body 102 such that an optical fiber 20 canbe inserted beneath the plurality of fiber management tabs 104 andsecured between the plurality of fiber management tabs 104 and the mainbody 102.

In certain examples, the first coil 110 of the first optical fiber 20 acan be secured to the flexible, film-like substrate 10 d by the firstset 104 a of the plurality of fiber management tabs 104. In someexamples, the first optical fibers 20 a that includes the first coil 110can be secured to the first section 114 of the flexible, film-likesubstrate 10 d by the first set 104 a of the fiber management tabs 104.

In certain examples, the second coil 112 of the second optical fiber 20b can be secured to the flexible, film-like substrate 10 d by the secondset 104 b of the plurality of fiber management tabs 104. In someexamples, the second optic fibers 20 b that includes the second coil 112can be secured to the first section 114 of the flexible, film-likesubstrate 10 d by the second set 104 b of the fiber management tabs 104.

In certain examples, optical fibers 20 of the first plurality of opticalfibers 20 a can extend from the first section 114 to the second section116 as shown in FIGS. 14-15. The plurality of fiber management tabs 104can be adapted to secure the optical fibers 20 of the first plurality ofoptical fibers 20 a to the second section 116. That is, the firstoptical fiber 20 a can extend from the first section 114 to the secondsection 116 where at least one of the plurality of fiber management tabs104 secures the first optical fiber 20 a to the second section 116.

In certain examples, the optical fiber 20 can include a first portionand a second portion where the first portion is not adhesively securedto the flexible, film-like substrate 10 d. The first portion can besecured to the flexible, film-like substrate 10 d by the plurality offiber management tabs 104 and the second portion can be adhesivelysecured to the flexible, film-like substrate 10 d, although alternativesare possible.

Turning to FIGS. 14-15, the first and second optical fibers 20 a, 20 bcan be secured together at a splice location 122. In certain examples,the first and second pluralities of optical fibers 20 a, 20 b can besecured together at the splice location 122. The splice location 122 canbe supported by a splice holder 124. The splice holder 124 can besecured to the main body 102 of the flexible, film-like substrate 10 d(e.g., by adhesive, mounting tabs defined by the substrate 10 d, etc.),although alternatives are possible. The splice holder 124 and the firstand second coils 110, 112 can be secured to the first section 114 of theflexible, film-like substrate 10 d, although alternatives are possible.In certain examples, the first and second optic fibers 20 a, 20 b can bespliced together at the splice locations 122 supported by the spliceholder 124 attached to the first section 114. When the first and secondoptical fibers 20 a, 20 b are spliced together, a certain amount oflength of the first and second optical fibers 20 a, 20 b can be storedabout the first and second coils 110, 112.

The telecommunications fiber management device 100 can be adapted foruse with a telecommunications enclosure 136 (e.g., closure, organizer).The telecommunications enclosure 136 can include a housing 134. Thehousing 134 may have a first housing piece 134 a (e.g., cover, top) anda second housing piece 134 b (e.g., base, bottom) (not shown).

The telecommunications fiber management device 100 can include connectorportions 127 defined in the main body 102 of the flexible, film-likesubstrate 10 d. Fiber optic connectors 126 can be received in theconnector portions 127 of the flexible, film-like substrate 10 d. Theconnector portions 127 can be defined in the second section 116 of theflexible, film-like substrate 10 d, although alternatives are possible.

The first optical fibers 20 a can each be terminated by one of the fiberoptic connectors 126. The first optical fibers 20 a can each haveconnectorized ends 128 that are adjacent the second section 116. Theconnectorized ends 128 can plug into non-hardened connector ports 130 offiber optic adapters 132 that are secured to the first housing piece 134a of the telecommunications enclosure 136.

In certain examples, the fiber optic adapters 132 are ruggedized fiberoptic adapters that include hardened connector ports 138 accessible fromoutside the first housing piece 134 a and the non-hardened connectorports 130 accessible from inside the housing 134.

In certain examples, the second section 116 of the flexible, film-likesubstrate 10 d defines at least one opening 140 for allowing the firstoptical fibers 20 a to pass through the flexible, film-like substrate 10d to reach the non-hardened connector ports 130. For example, the atleast one opening 140 can be defined at the connector portions 127 ofthe flexible, film-like substrate 10 d for routing the connectorizedends 128 therethrough.

The main body 102 of the flexible, film-like substrate 10 d can bemovable between a first state (see FIG. 15) in which the first andsecond sections 114, 116 are generally planar and a second state (seeFIG. 16) in which the first and second sections 114, 116 generallyoppose one another. When the telecommunications fiber management device100 is mounted within the telecommunications enclosure 136, thetelecommunications fiber management device 100 is oriented in the secondstate. That is, the flexible, film-like substrate 10 d can be mountablein the housing 134 and be oriented in the second state when in thehousing 134. In certain examples, the flexible, film-like substrate 10 dmay be oriented in the second state where a gentle bend (e.g., gentlecurve, rolled, not folded)(see FIG. 16) of the flexible, film-likesubstrate 10 d is obtained to provide bend radius protection for thefirst and second optical fibers 20 a, 20 b. The flexible, film-likesubstrate 10 d can be bent or flexed to support the optical fibers 20 a,20 b without creating a fold.

In certain examples, the second section 116 includes first and secondopenings 140 a, 140 b for allowing the spliced first optical fibers 20 ato respectively pass through the flexible, film-like substrate 10 d toreach the non-hardened connector ports 130. That is, the connectorizedends 128 of the spliced first optical fibers 20 a can be respectivelyrouted through the openings 140 a, 140 b of the film-like substrate 10 dto plug into the non-hardened connector ports 130 of fiber opticadapters 132.

Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a fixture 142 (e.g.,jig, fixation device) (see FIG. 17) for use in loading the opticalfibers 20 into the telecommunications fiber management device 100. Thefixture 142 may include a first member 141 and a second member 143,although alternatives are possible.

Turning to FIGS. 17-18, the second member 143 of the fixture 142 maydefine a recess 145 sized and configured to receive thetelecommunications fiber management device 100. The telecommunicationsfiber management device 100 can be mounted in the recess 145 of thefixture 142 while in the first state.

The first member 141 of the fixture 142 can include posts 144 (e.g.,supports) and the second member 143 may define a plurality of apertures147 (e.g., openings, holes). When the first and second members 141, 143are mounted together as the fixture 142, the posts 144 can be arrangedand configured to be received in one of the plurality of apertures 147.

Referring to FIGS. 19-21, the posts 144 can be movable between firstpositions in which the posts 144 can be extended through the apertures147 to hold the fiber management tabs 104 in the flexed positions tofacilitate loading the optical fibers 20 under the fiber management tabs104, and second positions in which the posts 144 can be retracted toallow the fiber management tabs 104 to move back toward the at restpositions.

In certain examples, the post 144 can be moved or activated manually,although alternatives are possible. In certain examples, the post 144can be moved or activated automatically, although alternatives arepossible.

In certain examples, the flexible, film-like substrate 10 d may includemounting structures 146 (e.g., fixation holes, openings, apertures,notch) that can be used to mount the flexible, film-like substrate 10 dto the fixture 142 for alignment control and support during assembly.The mounting structures 146 can be defined by the flexible, film-likesubstrate 10 d such that they are integrally made with (e.g., formed inone seamless piece with) the flexible, film-like substrate 10 d.

Turning to FIG. 22, the flexible, film-like substrate 10 d is shownfixed on the fixture 142. As depicted, the posts 144 are activated inpreparation of routing the optical fibers 20 thereon. Excess cable oroverlengths can be routed about the posts 144 to subsequently create therespective first and second coils 110, 112 on the flexible, film-likesubstrate 10 d. In certain examples, the posts 144 may be actuated toroute the optical fibers 20 on the flexible, film-like substrate 10 dfrom the first section 114 to the second section 116 such that at leastone of the plurality of fiber management tabs 104 secures the firstoptical fiber 20 a to the second section 116. The flexible, film-likesubstrate 10 d can be completely prepared or assembled on the fixture142. Once the flexible, film-like substrate 10 d is complete, theflexible, film-like substrate 10 d can be released from the fixture 142as shown in FIG. 23.

From the forgoing detailed description, it will be evident thatmodifications and variations can be made without departing from thespirit and scope of the disclosure.

1. A fiber management device, comprising: (a) a flexible, film-likesubstrate including: a first flexible portion with at least one opticalfiber adhesively secured thereon; and (ii) a second flexible portionincluding at least one optical fiber management structure for storing alength of optical fiber loosely constrained thereon, the at least oneoptical fiber management structure being integral with the flexible,film-like substrate.
 2. The fiber management device according to claim1, further comprising a perforated fold line along a portion of alateral axis of the flexible, film-like substrate.
 3. The fibermanagement device of claim 2, wherein the perforated fold line dividesthe flexible, film-like substrate into the first and second flexibleportions.
 4. The fiber management device of claim 2, wherein the secondflexible portion is folded at the perforated fold line to be disposedrelative to the first flexible portion.
 5. The fiber management deviceof claim 2, further comprising at least one mounting structure formounting the flexible, film-like substrate, the at least one mountingstructure being located in at least one of the first and second flexibleportions.
 6. The fiber management device of claim 5, wherein the atleast one mounting structure is positioned offset from the perforatedfold line.
 7. The fiber management device of claim 1, wherein the atleast one optical fiber management structure is a tab.
 8. The fibermanagement device of claim 1, wherein the at least one optical fibermanagement structure is adapted to allow loosely constrained opticalfiber to be coiled.
 9. The fiber management device of claim 1, whereinthe at least one optical fiber management structure is a cover thatforms a sleeve for storing optical fibers.
 10. A fiber managementdevice, comprising: (a) a flexible, film-like substrate including: (i) afirst flexible portion with at least one optical fiber adhesivelysecured thereon; and (ii) mounting structures for mounting the flexible,film-like substrate, the mounting structures being integral with theflexible, film-like substrate.
 11. The fiber management device accordingto claim 10, further comprising a perforated fold line along a portionof a lateral axis of the flexible, film-like substrate.
 12. The fibermanagement device of claim 11, further comprising a second flexibleportion, wherein the mounting structures are located in the secondflexible portion.
 13. The fiber management device of claim 12, whereinthe perforated fold line divides the flexible, film-like substrate intothe first and second flexible portions.
 14. The fiber management deviceof claim 12, wherein the second flexible portion is folded at theperforated fold line to be disposed relative to the first flexibleportion.
 15. The fiber management device of claim 11, wherein themounting structures are positioned offset from the perforated fold line.16. The fiber management device of claim 1, further comprising opticalfiber management structures.
 17. The fiber management device of claim16, wherein the optical fiber management structures are tabs.
 18. Thefiber management device of claim 16, wherein the optical fibermanagement structures are adapted to allow loosely constrained opticalfiber to be coiled.
 19. The fiber management device of claim 16, whereinthe optical fiber management structures are covers that form a sleevefor storing optical fibers.
 20. A fiber optic management system,comprising: (a) a flexible, film-like substrate including: (i) a firstflexible portion with at least one optical fiber adhesively securedthereon; (b) mounting structures for mounting the flexible, film-likesubstrate, the mounting structures being integral with the flexible,film-like substrate; and (c) a cover integral with the flexible,film-like substrate, the cover being separated by a fold line.
 21. Thefiber optic management system of claim 20, wherein the cover is adaptedto allow loosely constrained optical fiber to be coiled.
 22. The fiberoptic management system of claim 20, wherein the cover forms a sleevefor storing optical fibers.
 23. A telecommunications fiber managementdevice comprising: a flexible film including a main body and a pluralityof fiber management tabs, the fiber management tabs including base endsunitary with the main body and free ends positioned opposite from thebase ends, the fiber management tabs being capable of being resilientlyflexed relative the main body from an at rest position to a flexedposition, the fiber management tabs being co-planar with the main bodywhen in the at rest position, and wherein the free ends of the fibermanagement tabs are upwardly offset from the main body when in theflexed position such that an optical fiber can be inserted beneath thefiber management tabs and secured between the fiber management tabs andthe main body.
 24. The telecommunications fiber management device ofclaim 23, wherein the optical fiber includes a first portion and asecond portion, wherein the first portion is not adhesively secured tothe flexible film and is secured to the flexible film by the pluralityof fiber management tabs, and wherein the second portion is adhesivelysecured to the film.
 25. The telecommunications fiber management deviceof claim 23, wherein a first set of the fiber management tabs isarranged in a first configuration for securing the optical fiber to theflexible film in a coil, and wherein the coil of the optical fiber issecured to the flexible film by the first set of fiber management tabs.26. The telecommunications fiber management device of claim 25, whereinthe fiber management tabs of the first set of fiber management tabs arepositioned circumferentially about a first reference point.
 27. Thetelecommunications fiber management device of claim 26, wherein thefiber management tabs of the first set of fiber management tabs includefirst fiber management tabs in which the free ends face towards thefirst reference point and second fiber management tabs in which the freeends face away from the first reference point.
 28. Thetelecommunications fiber management device of claim 25, wherein theoptical fiber is a first optical fiber and the coil is a first coil,wherein a second set of the fiber management tabs is arranged in asecond configuration for securing the second optical fiber to theflexible film in a second coil, and wherein the second coil is securedto the flexible film by the second set of fiber management tabs.
 29. Thetelecommunications fiber management device of claim 28, wherein thefirst and second optical fibers are secured together at a splicelocation, wherein the splice location is supported by a splice holder,and wherein the splice holder is secured to the main body of theflexible film.
 30. The telecommunications fiber management device ofclaim 29, wherein the first optical fiber is terminated by a fiber opticconnector, wherein the flexible film includes a first section and asecond section, wherein the splice holder, the first coil and the secondcoil are secured to the first section, wherein the first optical fiberextends from the first section to the second section, wherein at leastone of the fiber management tabs secures the first fiber to the secondsection, and wherein main body of the flexible film is movable between afirst state in which the first and second sections are generally planarand a second state in which the first and second sections generallyoppose one another.
 31. The telecommunications fiber management deviceof claim 30, wherein the telecommunications fiber management device isadapted for use with an enclosure and is oriented in the second statewhen within the enclosure.
 32. The telecommunications fiber managementdevice of claim 23, wherein a first set of the fiber management tabs isarranged in a first configuration for securing a first plurality ofoptical fibers to the flexible film in a first coil, wherein a secondset of the fiber management tabs is arranged in a second configurationfor securing a second plurality of optical fibers to the flexible filmin a second coil, wherein the first and second pluralities of opticalfibers are secured together at a splice location, wherein the splicelocation is supported by a splice holder, and wherein the splice holderis secured to the main body of the flexible film.
 33. Thetelecommunications fiber management device of claim 32, wherein theoptical fibers of the first plurality of optical fibers are terminatedby fiber optic connectors, wherein the flexible film includes a firstsection and a second section, wherein the splice holder, the first coiland the second coil are secured to the first section, wherein theoptical fibers of the first plurality of optical fibers extends from thefirst section to the second section, wherein fiber management tabssecure the optical fibers of the first plurality of optical fibers tothe second section, and wherein main body of the flexible film ismovable between a first state in which the first and second sections aregenerally planar and a second state in which the first and secondsections generally oppose one another.
 34. The telecommunications fibermanagement device of claim 33, wherein the telecommunications fibermanagement device is adapted for use with an enclosure and is orientedin the second state when within the enclosure.
 35. Thetelecommunications fiber management device of claim 23, wherein theflexible film includes a first section and a second section, wherein atleast some of the fiber management tabs are provided at each of thefirst and second sections, and wherein main body of the flexible film ismovable between a first state in which the first and second sections aregenerally planar and a second state in which the first and secondsections generally oppose one another.
 36. The telecommunications fibermanagement device of claim 35, wherein the telecommunications fibermanagement device is adapted for use with an enclosure and is orientedin the second state when within the enclosure.
 37. A fixture for use inloading optical fibers into the telecommunications fiber managementdevice of claim 23, wherein the telecommunications fiber managementdevice is mounted on the fixture while in the first state, and whereinthe fixture includes posts movable between first positions in which theposts are extended to hold the fiber management tabs in the flexedpositions to facilitate loading optical fibers under the fibermanagement tabs, and second positions in which the posts are retractedto allow the fiber management tabs to move back toward the at restpositions. 38.-46. (canceled)